# Open-Source Robotic Toys The Open FURBY Project Lets Consumers Personalized the Toy Bird By M | Published 2016-02-09 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/open-furby References: [mentalfloss](http://mentalfloss.com/article/75034/you-can-program-open-source-furby-do-or-say-anything) & [businessinsider](http://www.businessinsider.com/open-source-furby-project-2016-2) The [robotic bird toy](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/onorato-ai) Furby was a popular childhood plaything in the early 90s, and now the device is making a modern comeback with the Open FURBY project that allows users to fully personalize the robotic gadget with a slew of commands and functions. Now players can enjoy having the robot react to human command and interaction for a more customized playing experience. Originally the Furby toy was designed to circulate through a series of pre-programmed commands and functions with no player interaction. The Open FURBY project seeks to change the experience with the integration of [open-sourced technology](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/makerworld-cyberbrick) so the device can be controlled via a computer and allow for [human-robot interaction](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/reachy-mini). This means players can have a more personalized experience with the toy as it responds to their commands. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 2.9/10 - Popularity: 19% | Activity: 61% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 10% men, 90% women - Primary generations: Gen Z - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [AI](https://www.trendhunter.com/ai) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Open-source Robotic Toys:** The Open FURBY Project allows users to fully personalize a robotic toy with commands and functions, disrupting the traditional model of pre-programmed play. - **Human-robot Interaction:** Integrating open-source technology in robotic toys enables personalized experiences and responsiveness to human commands, paving the way for more immersive interactions. - **Customized Playing Experience:** Open FURBY project's integration of open-sourced technology empowers players to have a fully personalized playing experience and engage with the toy on a deeper level. ### Who This Affects Most - **Toy Manufacturing:** The integration of open-source technology in robotic toys disrupts traditional manufacturing practices by allowing consumers to personalize the functionality and experience. - **Consumer Electronics:** Open-source robotic toys offer an innovative opportunity for disruption in the consumer electronics industry by combining advanced robotics with personalized, interactive experiences. - **Education:** The Open FURBY Project's human-robot interaction capabilities open new avenues for educational toys, enabling personalized learning experiences and fostering interest in robotics. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Fuzzy Musical Collectibles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/furblets.md) - [90s Toy Holiday Trees](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/furbtrees.md) - [Programmable Robot Toys](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mini-robots.md) - [Electronic Plush Toys](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/furblet-mini-toys.md) - [Touch-Responsive Robotic Pets](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/owlbear.md) - [Voice-Controlled Robot Dogs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/voicecontrolled-robot-dog.md) - [Interactive Plush Toys](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/interactive-plush-toys.md) - [Adorable AI Conversational Toys](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/folotoys.md) - [Open-Source Robot Companions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/reachy-mini.md)